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Bill Summary · HB 1279

Summary of House Bill 1279

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 1279
  • Title: Relating to Health
  • Status: Deferred by the committee(s) on Higher Education
  • Introduced: January 28, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Appropriation, Liaison, Medical Education, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1279 aims to amend the Arkansas Egg Marketing Act of 1969. The primary intent of the bill is to authorize retailers to repackage eggs under specific conditions, thereby enhancing the flexibility of egg sales while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following amendments to the Arkansas Egg Marketing Act:

  1. Repackaging Authorization:

    • Retailers may remove eggs from their original containers and place them into new containers if certain criteria are met.

  2. Criteria for Repackaging:

    • The replacement eggs must:
      • Be from the same packer as the missing or broken eggs, as indicated by the packer's license number.
      • Match the same grade and size as the original eggs.
      • Have the same expiration date, lot code, or Julian date.
      • Be from the same brand as the original eggs.
      • Be visibly clean, free from stains, dirt, or foreign materials.

Impact

  • Retailers: The bill provides retailers with the ability to manage inventory more effectively by allowing them to repackage eggs, which can help reduce waste and improve customer service.
  • Consumers: This change may lead to better availability of eggs and potentially lower prices, as retailers can ensure that they are selling complete cartons without waste from broken eggs.
  • Food Safety: The stringent criteria for repackaging aim to maintain food safety standards, ensuring that consumers receive high-quality products.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 28, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • February 5, 2025: The committee on Higher Education recommended that the measure be deferred.
  • February 24, 2025: Amendment #1 was adopted, allowing for the repackaging provisions.
  • March 12, 2025: Notification that HB 1279 is now Act 285, indicating it has passed through the legislative process.

Related Bills

  • SB 1107: This bill serves as a companion to HB 1279, potentially addressing similar issues related to egg marketing and repackaging.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1279, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on retailers and consumers in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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